FHSD seeks public input on Oct. 25 regarding future resources

October 10, 2018

As Forest Hills School District superintendent, my highest priorities are to provide students high-quality educational opportunities in safe and secure environments; be a good steward of taxpayer resources; and maintain a high level of transparency through quality communication.

Evidence exists that the district’s efforts to meet student needs are effective: the Cincinnati Enquirer named FHSD a “Top Ten District” in Greater Cincinnati, US News and World Report ranks FHSD high schools number 10 and 44 in the state, FHSD students consistently perform among the best based on Ohio Department of Education comparison district statistics, and more. Moving forward, we must continue our efforts to ensure students maintain the “Forest Hills” competitive edge as they enter college and careers.

During the Board of Education’s September 2018 meeting, Rob Guiffre, interim treasurer, shared the five-year forecast. Though the district has not asked for operating dollars in six years, the forecast reveals an operational levy is needed in 2019 to maintain current programming in the future. This may raise questions: When will the levy be placed on the ballot? How will this affect the school district? Will taxes be raised?

The answers to these questions will be determined after Forest Hills gathers extensive community input.

Therefore, I invite you to our first community engagement opportunity: a town hall to occur via telephone on Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. From the comfort of your home, you and hundreds of residents can share your views regarding the future of FHSD. Sign up to participate in the telephone town hall by texting “FHSD” to 828282.

Your involvement is critical to help decide if and when an operational levy is to be placed on the ballot. Please consider joining us on Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.